Mourners demand justice and say goodbye to Kabale Manchester United fan

The body of Benjamin Ndyamuhaki, a 36-year-old Manchester United fan who was allegedly murdered by an Arsenal supporter, was buried at Kabungo Cell, Katenga Parish, Kaharo Sub County, Kabale District, Western Uganda on Wednesday, October 30. Friends and family gathered in sadness to say goodbye to Ndyamuhaki, the fifth of eleven children.

Ndyamuhaki was reportedly attacked on Sunday, October 27, at the Kyobugombe Trading Center following an altercation that started after Arsenal and Liverpool drew 2-2 in an English Premier League match.

According to Mr Edmond Tumwesigye, Chairman of LCIII of Kaharo Sub County, the clash broke out in a video room when Liverpool scored a late equalizer, prompting Ndyamuhaki to celebrate. The celebration, which involved popcorn throwing, reportedly led to an argument with Arsenal fan Onan Byampangi, who hit Ndyamuhaki with a stick after the match.

“I was informed on Monday morning that two men fought each other on Sunday evening and one was taken to Bukinda Health Center before being transferred to Rugarama where he died. We are actively searching for the suspect, who was last seen in Ntungamo,” Mr Tumwesigye told mourners.

Speaking at the funeral, Mr Kenneth Atukwase, Mr Ndyamuhaki’s elder brother, described him as loving, hardworking and supportive.

“Our brother loved us very much and worked hard for our family. We are heartbroken by his untimely passing. May he rest in peace,” he said.

Another mourner, Mr Barnard Tumuhimbise, appealed for calm and urged family members not to retaliate.

“Our son did nothing to deserve this; God has already decided about his life. Children, do not seek revenge, for it is God who will take it on our behalf,” he said.

Mr Dan Kasaku, chairman of the Rukiga Taxi Drivers Association, remembered Ndyamuhaki as “humble, trustworthy and hardworking. Benyi was known for his cooperation, truthfulness and humility. We have truly lost a good man,” he said.

Rev. Michael Asiimwe, pastor of Rwesasi Church in Uganda, urged mourners and football fans to control their emotions, especially during matches.

“I love football, but because I struggle with anger, I avoid video rooms for games. If you know you can’t control your anger, stay away. Find ways to cope instead of resorting to violence,” he advised.

The Kigezi Regional Coordinator of the Alliance for National Transition (ANT), Mr Bonny Tumuranze, reiterated the advice and warned against mafia justice. “We are working with the police to ensure that the suspect is arrested and brought to justice,” he assured the community.

Kabale District Police Commander (DPC), Mr Joseph Bakaleke, confirmed the ongoing manhunt for Byampangi, who remains at large.